Mabel live: Our review

“Manchester tonight I’m all yours”

Valentine’s day came early as punters swooned for multi-Brit Award 2020 nominee, MABEL at the O2 Victoria Warehouse this week.

Swedish-British singer-songwriter MABEL has risen quickly and significantly through the ranks of pop. Daughter of Neneh Cherry, the “cross-generational music and style superstar who went onto defy then-musical genres”, and famous record producer Cameron McVey, who has worked with the likes of Massive Attack, All Saints and Sugababes, Mabel has now carved out a successful music career of her own.

Following opener singer-songwriter Kali Claire who set just the right mood for the night ahead, hyper fans were MABEL’s priority as she confidently commandeered a live band and energetic dancers through the array of hits that almost make you forget she’s only just about to turn 24.

The setlist was balanced to showcase much of her latest album, ‘High Expectations’, with a couple of her major collaborations (Not3s, Jax Jones) and throwback hits sprinkled in for good measure.

Her vocals shone throughout, especially on tracks like, ‘Stckhlm Syndrome’ and ‘OK (Anxiety Anthem) which give a glimpse of the girl behind the glitter, though nothing could beat the atmosphere in the room as the show ended with ‘Don’t Call Me Up’. A smash hit both here and in the usually unconquerable USA.

The crowd were left on a high, with no doubt that MABEL will be one person you can be sure to keep their eye out for the years ahead.

You can catch her on tour in the UK until February 12th, or watch MABEL perform at this year Brit Awards 2020 on 18th February!

Luke Davies for Canal St Online.

Published: 6-Feb-2020 (5746)